Maglev, an abbreviation of "Magnetically Levitating Train" is a form of transportation that suspends, guides and propels train carriages using electromagnetic force. This non-friction method is able to be fast and quiet when compared to conventional railway system, potentially reaching velocities comparable to jet airplane (about 900 km/h). The highest recorded speed of a maglev train is 581 km/h, achieved in Japan in 2003, 6 km/h higher than the conventional TGV (Train a Grande Vitesse in France) speed record.

After almost three years’ construction by Shanghai Maglev Transportation Development Co. Ltd., Shanghai Maglev Train started its public operation on January 1, 2004. Made with German technology, the train is the first of its kind worldwide to be used for commercial purpose. The train line starts at Longyang Road station in Pudong on the Shanghai Metro line 2 and ends at Pudong International Airport, with a total length of 30 kilometers. Different from other trains, the Maglev Train is tracked and controlled by a telecommunication network. The normal speed of the train’s operation is more than 400 km/h and it only takes 7 minutes and 20 seconds to complete the whole journey, which can save a lot of time for passengers of urgent needs. Since there is no stop in between, passengers rarely take the train for sightseeing. Inside the train, the environment is marvelously clean and quiet. There is a speed indicator, informing of the current speed. Outside the Longyang Road Station is Lujiazui Commercial District, where you can enjoy delicious food and fabulous shopping experience.

The train line is still prolonging in recent years. The plan for extension to the nearby city Hangzhou via Shanghai South Railway Station and the World Exposition site has been approved by the related authorities and is expected to complete in 2010.